Description

Norvasc (amlodipine)

Norvasc is a blood pressure-lowering drug from the group of calcium channel blockers of the nifedipine-type (dihydropyridine). Its systematic name is (RS) 3-ethyl-5-methyl-2-(2-aminoethoxymethyl) -4 – (2-chlorophenyl) -1, 4-dihydro-6-methyl-3, 5 – pyridinedi carboxylatebenzene sulphonate.

In pharmacology, Norvasc, manufactured by STADA, is a medication that acts as a calcium channel blocker and is used as long-acting medication as an anti-hypertensive in the cure of angina pectoris. Akin to most calcium channel blockers, Norvasc relaxes the even muscle in the fibrous artery wall, decreasing peripheral resistance and thereby decreasing blood pressure. In angina its actions enhance the flow of blood to the cardiac muscle.

Conditions Treated by Norvasc

It has a long lasting effect and is essentially used in cases of high blood pressure (hypertension). In chronic stable angina pectoris and Prinzmetal’s angina (vasospastic angina pectoris), it is used to treat and prevent attacks.

Norvasc relaxes the vascular smooth muscle, dilating the blood arteries. Its detailed mechanism of action is not yet structured. The drug reduces ischemia because the arterioles dilate the peripheral vascular system making the myocardial function stable, because of which it consumes less energy and less oxygen.

The dilated coronary artery in normal and ischemic regions causes a greater amount of oxygen to be released in the myocardium in patients with angina and variably reduces the action of vasoconstrictors in patients who smoke. Norvasc entirely metabolizes all inactive metabolites which are excreted through urine.

Norvasc Dosage Information

a.) Typical Dosage Recommendations

For hypertension or angina pectoris, is often recommended to use 5-10 mg every day, but you can start treatment with 2.5 mg per day. Some suppliers also prepare compound norvasc salt based tablets.

b.) Missing A Dose

Take the dosage that you missed as quickly as you are reminded of it. Leave out the missed dose in case it is roughly time for you to take another dose. Don’t use any additional medication to substitute the skipped dose.

c.) Overdosing

Overdosing of Novasc may cause low blood pressure, rapid heart rate. This may result in indications or symptoms that consist of nausea, giddiness, fainting, and sense of a rapidly or vigorously pounding heart. Go for urgent medical attention if you think you’ve been overdosed with Novasc or experience such symptoms.

Norvasc Warnings

Hypotension – In patients with severe obstructive coronary artery disease and aortic stenosis, the function of Norvasc can bring the systolic blood pressure below 90 mmHg. Therefore, Norvasc is not recommended for the risk of severe hypotension.

Cardiogenic shock – Norvasc should be used with caution in patients with cardiogenic shock because the drug may increase the risk of a negative inotropic effect.

Hepatic Impairment – Since Norvasc undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism, a reduction in organ function may clinically induce a significant increase in concentration of plasma drug. It is therefore recommended, if necessary, to reduce the dose of Norvasc in such a case.

Renal impairment – Patients with impaired renal function do not need a dose adjustment of norvasc. The drug is not dialyzable.

Therapy Combination – In combination with diuretics, beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors, there is no need to change the dosage of Norvasc.